Diary Entry
4.15.2020
As I lay in bed writing, Kelcey is already asleep in the other room, Alistaire and I haven’t been in the best place either, thanks to his father and my stupidity. I often wonder if I am my own worst enemy. I haven’t talked to my dad in weeks, I keep trying to call, text, leave messages but he won’t answer me back. I find myself crying to sleep all the time, I can’t lose my father, he is why I did all this in the first place. Was I stupid, sure, maybe I shouldn’t have been so desperate, the thing is while desperation or not, I did it to help us, especially him. My mom and sister pretty much abandoned him and I, it really hurt and from then on forward, I didn’t know what to do, when an opportunity like that presented itself, I had to take it.
Now I wish I hadn’t.
People come to me all the time and ask me how he is doing, I can’t answer it, so I lie. Yes, I lie and tell everyone that all is fine, the only people who know are Kelcey and Ali, who I didn’t want to tell him either, but it came out forced. This is a very important part of my career, after spending the last six months practically existing, I finally get a shot not only at Jordan Majors but the Adrenaline Championship as well. These are those moments I wish to share my excitement with him. Things around here have been different too with Kelcey around, it’s like people are losing their tempers, Sienna and Chris are on a rampage, I think Jordan is caught in the middle of it and maybe I shouldn’t butt into her business. Jaina told me off tonight, I guess she still think I somehow took Owen from her, whatever. I know the truth there and I don’t have time to argue with an eighteen-year-old still pissed at me for absolutely nothing.
There are boundaries I shouldn’t cross, I probably did tonight.
I am still trying to put my head around all this, hope my father calls me, though I talk to Margherita, she tells me everything is alright. Am I starting to become selfish? Or maybe I am trying to cause some waves and make some noise, I need to stop for a moment and check myself at the gate? I can say this in writing for sure, no one knows how much I want to win the Adrenaline Championship and walk out with a title over a rival of mine who I have now nothing but respect and admiration for even if she seems pissed at me for trying to help. The only way I am going to win the title though is if my head is straight and I am ready to fend back an angry and extremely determined Jordan Majors.
She has become the person to beat, and I the forgotten.
XOXO
LOSING HOPE
CHAPTER TWO
It hadn’t been an easy road for Peyton Rice, after she fought with her father, telling him the truth about her days as an escort to bring more money home and put food on the table, they were the only ones living together at the time, Peyton used the money to care for her wheelchair bound father after a terrible accident as a firefighter, she started to see that her dad was starting to get close with Tessa Dowling, the sister of Warren who owned the escort service and tried to blackmail her recently. Tessa had claimed she was falling in love with her father, Peyton though didn’t buy it. She finally said enough was enough and decided to tell the truth. That ended up costing her the relationship and respect of her dad more than anything. She felt her heart sink, he was the only reason she wrestled, why everything was so important, it was the moral compass Peyton always had and shared with her father which meant it all to her. Now she found herself with her father, trying desperately to call him, text, anything for him to answer her back but he wouldn’t. The battle with the Dowling’s was also not over, there were still issues that had not been resolved though didn’t care about any of it, which also led to her issues with Ali’s father, Adam Allocco. Her problems with the Mason’s, with Damian Angel and finally her career in SCW being nothing what she envisioned.
For Peyton though, it was all about trying to focus on the positive, the question was, how much positive was left?
Two Weeks Ago
Huntington Beach, CA.
After Retribution and Breakdown, Peyton and Alistaire decided to take a couple of days off and just relax. Peyton was off doing their thing and Alistaire was training. For Peyton, she had been pretty down, wasn’t the same, the walls were closing in and Kelcey could see it, but Peyton wasn’t telling anyone. She sat out on the beach in her white bikini top and jean shorts, sunglasses with her nails polished white and long straightened hair hanging down. Alistaire was being strangely quiet, he had his shirt off, with shorts, sipping a bottle of water. Peyton had caught on to it but of course she was going through her own issues and hadn’t told Ali yet. She was on her phone, one more attempt to text her dad, hopefully he would answer back which hasn’t been the case lately, she hates it but doesn’t have much of a choice…
Hey dad, it’s me, I know you are mad at me, I am so sorry but please let me explain. Can you text me back, we can talk things out? I hope you are doing well and stay safe and home. I love you.
As she hits send, Peyton looks over at Ali who sits quietly turns and sees her on the phone….
Alistaire: “Texting someone?”
Peyton: “Yeah, my dad. I haven’t talked to him in a bit, just making sure he is alright.”
Alistaire: “Maybe you should go to Arizona and see him?”
Peyton: “I called Margherita, the live-in nurse, she told me he was okay. I shouldn’t worry about it much and really, it’s not a good time to travel anyway. Besides I am spending time with you, seems like we don’t get much of that lately. A lot changed after those Russian jerks abducted me thanks to your dad.”
Alistaire: “Peyton….”
Peyton: “Ali, it’s okay. I don’t blame you at all. I hate this, I wish that we could have a better relationship with him. I don’t like not being able to trust your dad, he seems to always be up to something and some of it affects both of our careers. That maybe is one of the reasons Kelcey is back and in our corner, it was becoming too much. I want to be happy, know I can trust people, feel like I once did with others, that no matter what they have done in the past, I can still look at them and really give them the benefit of the doubt, there is good in everyone, even your dad.”
There was a pause, a bit of an awkward silence before Peyton looked over at Ali, now she knew there was something bothering him, it seemed like he had been keeping it inside for a while. Peyton reached over and grabbed his hand, though he seemed a bit cold and didn’t squeeze or actually grab it, then she really knew something was up. She gently pressed her hand against his cheek, moving his face toward her but he resisted….
Peyton: “Okay…. Something is obviously up with you and I would like to know what it is because right now it is making me feel uncomfortable. You have been giving me the cold shoulder for a while now, if there is something bothering you, I would hope you’d tell me and not let it fester.”
Alistaire: “It’s nothing Peyton.”
Peyton: “Not buying it Ali, please look at me.”
Alistaire: “I said everything was fine.”
Peyton: “Ali…. Please look at me.”
As he slowly turns to Peyton, she knows that something is bothering him. What was the question. Her heart started to race a little, she was already emotional about her father and what was going on with him, in her opinion she didn’t need this from Ali too. Taking a deep breath, she tried to stay calm and vigilant…
Peyton: “What is it?”
Alistaire: “When you said that one of the things missed is the ability to see good in everyone?”
Peyton: “Yeah?”
Alistaire: “Did you see good in Jordan Majors? Ace Marshall? Asher Hayes?”
Peyton: “I’m not following Ali.”
Alistaire: “You went on a boat with them. Before Day of Infamy.”
Peyton: “I told you I was, Ali.”
Alistaire: “Well, heard rumors.”
Peyton: “What kind of rumors.”
Alistaire: “Peyton, you do understand that I know Ace Marshall practically better than anyone else here? I know his games, what he likes to do, his form of entertainment. Maybe you see something alright in this, but I do not.”
Her heart started to beat faster because there was some debauchery on the boat that she never told Alistaire, yet again hiding things from the people she loves. The last thing she wanted or needed was a fight with Alistaire or any kind of broken trust. The last time she came clean, it cost the respect from her father and he hadn’t talked to her since, feeling betrayed. The question was, will Ali feel the same way?
Peyton: “Ali, it was a stupid training session, yes Ace put his twist and staple on things, Asher was there to pretty much entertain himself and feel important with Ace. Jordan, Kelsai and I were only there for some silly team building trip, try to put our differences aside so we could go out there and win and become Trios Captains. It worked, the things we did were dumb and harmless Ali.”
Alistaire: “Is it true?”
Peyton: “Is what true?”
Alistaire: “That you and Jordan wrestled in some pool full of…. Lube? With sex toys all around? Did you wrestle in bikini’s?”
Peyton: “No… Ali listen to me, alright. You are getting yourself worked up over nothing, let me explain. Yes, we wrestled in a poll of lube, yes there were sex toys, but nothing happened. Jordan and I wrestled, we had fun and while there were a lot of animosity between us, and I think in a way it settled some of it. I won. I am not going to lie to you, there was a lot of drinking on the boat, I did get drunk. Listen to me, alright? I was in a bad place. The walls were coming down on me professionally and even personally. It had nothing to do with you, it was all me. I wanted a getaway, a chance to hit the reset button and hopefully help which it did. I am glad I went, yet the one thing I was afraid of was the reaction you would have because of the history with Ace. Kelsai and I took care of each other. Jordan and I in the end ended up bonding and we had a very nice conversation. I know it sounds bad, but it wasn’t all insanity.”
Alistaire: “You were drunk?”
She lowered her head and nodded…
Peyton: “Yeah I was, and it was stupid of me, Ali. I regret it. At least I went to bed, nobody bothered me, Jordan was there to make sure I was okay.”
Alistaire: “She is a lesbian.”
Peyton: “Alistaire, for crying out loud, I said I was drunk, and she tucked me in, I didn’t say anything about hooking up with her, you know I am not like that!”
Alistaire: “You are not, but she is.”
Peyton: “Okay, Ali stop please. Nothing happened between me and Jordan. She didn’t do anything while I was asleep. Neither did Ace or Asher. All we did was have some stupid lube wrestling match and then saw some cockfighting.”
She shouldn’t have put it that way, Alistaire looked at her like Peyton had raped his father. She quickly shook her head trying to correct herself…
Peyton: “No, it’s roosters, they were fighting, he took us to a Puerto Rican festival afterwards, it was kinda of cool. Look, Ali seriously this sounds a lot worse than what it was, just please understand that I would never do anything to hurt you. It was silliness, you know how Ace is.”
Alistaire: “That is the problem, I know how Ace is. I know what he is capable of, what he would do to you to get to me.”
Peyton: “He said some things, but I shut him down. I wasn’t going to allow anyone to talk about you like that. I probably should have told you sooner, I meant to, but things were difficult for me. The Russians, a few personal problems I was dealing with, the Damian thing too, all that went out in the ring. It was like it all fell at once. Do you want to know what I got out of the experience? How much I love you. How much I cherish what I have with my friends and family. I know that sounds odd, I even thought about what Ace did to me at the PPV and maybe felt like it was because I was dating you.”
Alistaire: “That is exactly why he did it, Peyton. You shouldn’t have gone on the boat. I shouldn’t have let you go, and I did. I thought I could trust you and….”
Peyton: “… wait a second. You thought what? That you could trust me? YES, you can trust me Ali! I didn’t do anything! All I did was argue with Ace half the time about how great a guy you are and what did I get for it? A Knee to my face that knocked me out, having the worst performance of my career and having to listen to Jordan brag about how she beat me because she was the only damn survivor and the number one pick in the Trios Tournament! I went there trying to be a good captain, do not tell me you can’t trust me Alistaire, you were not the one who was taken by Russians set up by your father! You are not the one he grabbed your ass! You are not the one that has some maniac obsessed with my career! All I have ever done is put up with this shit!”
Alistaire: “Really? Well, you really showed it wrestling in lube with another woman who probably has the hots for you! What did you guys do? Flaunt your bodies to that pervert Asher and of course Captain Jackass Marshall!? You are my girlfriend, I love you too, I would never go on some escapade of debauchery and sex games! I would never do that to you! I respect you Peyton, more than you respect yourself and….”
*SLAP!*
It was a hard slap, Peyton’s eyes were teary, she couldn’t hold it in anymore. First her father and then her boyfriend. She stood up and grabbed her things. Alistaire rubbed his cheek, surprised that Peyton slapped him. Standing up, he blocked her path, he felt they were not done, and her reactions were only making her look even more guilty. Peyton stopped and looked up at him….
Alistaire: “Was that necessary!? That hurt!”
Peyton: “I’m sorry. I’m just really upset right now, and I didn’t mean to do this. Please get out of my way. I need some space right now.”
Alistaire: “So I am the bad guy now? Because I know Ace and what he would do to you on the boat, right? Where are you going!?”
Peyton: “Ali…. Right now, you are breaking my heart accusing me of things I never did. I swear on Ricky’s grave that nothing happened there! I would never in a million years stoop down to those levels and ever hurt you or anyone I love like that. Did I have a wrestling match in lube with a woman that likes other women? Yes, but she doesn’t like me, Ali. She sees me as her biggest rival, her nemesis, arch villain, whatever metaphor you want to come up with! I didn’t want this, I should have come to you sooner, but it wasn’t supposed to be like this!”
Alistaire: “You know what, save it! I thought better of you!”
Peyton: “Better of me!? Considering I put up with your father’s bullshit on a daily basis!? That’s rich!”
Alistaire: “Whatever Peyton, I least I didn’t go on a boat and wrestle in a pool of lube showing off my body to a couple of perverted morons! I’m out of here!”
Peyton: “Ali, don’t do this! Ali…. ”
But there was no talking to him. Alistaire grabbed his things and started to walk away. Peyton could only watch before she dropped in a sitting position on the sand, lowering her head and starting to cry, not believing how quickly this all went south.
Later That Day
Hollywood Hills, CA.
Peyton was flustered, she had been crying about what happened with Alistaire, it seemed like her whole world was falling apart and she couldn’t even talk to her father, the one person she always counted on for help. Coming home she took a shower, put on some light make-up, her hair was a little damp, she put on one of Owen’s “O-Cru” shirts and some booty shorts, barefoot, she went downstairs, reached into the fridge and poured herself a big glass of wine, then went outside to the atrium and sat down, enjoying the afternoon soon. She couldn’t read, watch TV, she wanted just silence. Thinking about it, Peyton started to believe that she was a slut, that maybe she wasn’t who she thought. Her father hated her, her boyfriend hated her, the entire world was falling apart around her and there was nothing she could do. Maybe Blake Mason was right? Maybe she should have let Damian in. There were so many scenarios playing through her head and knowing the biggest match of her career was right around the corner, Peyton didn’t know what else to do…
She was going to lose if she walked into Cold Blooded feeling this way.
It took a moment, she took a deep breath and started to think about how things were. Not sipping, but swallowing her wine, it was the only thing that gave her comfort. That was before she heard the front door open, Owen had come in, she thought maybe Jennifer was with him, she could hear her voice as well. Peyton said nothing, instead swallowed more of her wine as they talked, sounding like they had some groceries in the kitchen. Jennifer walked outside first in shorts, a blue halter top and sandals, her nails polished a clear coating and long brunette hair hanging down, she gave Peyton a huge hug…
Jennifer: “There she is! The next Adrenaline Champion! We didn’t know you were going to be here; thought you had a day with Ali planned out?”
Peyton: “Hey gorgeous. Yeah, something came up, so we had to cut it short.”
Jennifer: “That sucks. Well, I bought ingredients to make a pizza, I’ll make enough for the three of us, alright?”
Peyton: “You’re a sweetheart Jenni, but I’m okay. I came out here to get some fresh air and have a little bit of wine, you guys pretend I’m not even here, I’ll probably go take a nap afterwards anyway.”
Jennifer, the EMERGE Champion, daughter of Regan and David Helms, girlfriend of Owen Cruze could see that Peyton was not being herself. Peyton is usually very cheery, she loves company, always puts down everything she does to hang out with Jennifer as there are times, they don’t see each other for weeks. This was not the Peyton Jennifer knew and she had seen that for probably the last few weeks. Jenni tries not to pry in people’s business. Maybe she just missed Ricky, there were a few times in the past, Peyton would get in these moods, but they never lasted long. Jenni brushes a few strands of hair from Peyton’s face…
Jennifer: “If things were not fine, you would talk to Owen and I right?”
Peyton: “Oh yeah, totally. I’m just tired, trying to focus on Cold Blooded though it is a few weeks away, I’m just in one of my Zen moods, tired, not really feeling like doing much but think and relax. I wasn’t expecting to be home, so like I said, just pretend that I am not even here.”
Jennifer: “Okay, well I will save you some pizza anyway, I’m using cauliflower crust and I know that you love that.”
Peyton: “Thank you babe, I love you.”
Jennifer: “I love you too.”
They kissed on the cheeks; Jennifer walked inside. Owen was in the kitchen unloading the groceries. He looked over at Jennifer. Owen was in an O-Cru jersey, jean shirts and sneakers. He smiled and looked outside realizing Peyton was there. He turned to look over at Jennifer…
Owen: “Is Ali here too?”
Jennifer: “No, she said they had to cut their day short. I think something is wrong, maybe they had a fight, but I have noticed the few times we have caught up that she has been rather reserved and distant at times. Is everything alright with her?
Owen: “I don’t know, Jen. I thought the same thing, last few weeks she would come home after training and either be in her room, sit outside and drink wine by herself or sleep. Pey has been sleeping a bunch lately too.”
Jennifer: “Shit… do you think she is depressed?”
Owen: “I don’t think so. Peyton is full of life, she loves wrestling, she loves Ali, as far as I know all is well with her and dad. She has been ecstatic Kelcey is back, last PPV she was happy and relieved, winning against Kelsai. Peyton has been through some rough stretches in SCW the last six months, but I thought everything was looking up after the whole Damian thing. I do know Adam Allocco is constantly grinding her gears. Other than that, yeah she has been a bit off, I thought it was a phase.”
Jennifer: “I don’t think it’s a phase, something is up and….”
As Jennifer was speaking, Peyton walked inside, she smiled, cutting their conversation. Everything went quiet, as Pey opened the fridge back up and poured herself another glass of Pinot Grigio….
Peyton: “If I didn’t know any better, I would think you two are talking about me.”
Jennifer: “No… not at all.”
Owen: “No, of course not. You’re home early.”
Peyton: “Yeah, plans fell through. Look, pretend I am not even here, I’m going upstairs to my room, I’ll probably take a nap.”
Peyton leaned in and kissed Owen on the cheek, she winked at Jennifer who smiled back as Peyton made her way up the stairs and into her room. Jennifer glanced over at Owen…
Jennifer: “Something is up.”
Owen: “Yeah, you’re right. Maybe I should call Kelcey?”
Jennifer: “That might be a good idea.”
About thirty minutes had passed, Peyton was lying down on her stomach in bed, knees bent, feet up, she was watching the last video she posted of her and Ray Rice, her father….
Ray: “You love using that shit, don’t you?”
Peyton: “Oh come on dad, I’m just shooting you, that way I can take it with me on the road and know you are always with me, right?”
Ray: “Well, damn. My little girl wants to take her old man wherever she goes, what do I say about that?”
Peyton: “Why don’t you say a few things about how you feel, maybe tell me a dad joke? I don’t know, say something dad, you’re a talker.”
He smirks, sitting in his wheelchair wearing jeans, a t-shirt and Fire Marshall hat….
Ray: “Okay, let’s see? How about how wonderful my daughter is? That a start?”
Peyton: “Dad, you don’t have to do that.”
Ray: “You told me to talk about what was on my mind, so I am. My daughter, the youngest Rice, and someone that has stuck by her old man for so long, when my crippled ass couldn’t even our himself a glass of milk. Sacrificed her entire youth to care for me. I know that people around this world call themselves angels but there is one right here standing, looking at me kinda funny, recording this old dog. Seriously Pey, without you I would be dead.”
Peyton: “Dad…. Please don’t say that.”
Ray: “It’s true Peyton. We have had it rough you and me, that’s the thing, it has always been you and me. When this accident happened, your mom couldn’t take it anymore. Your sister didn’t want to be bothered, but you? Dropping everything to take care of me meant the damn world. I wouldn’t be here today if my baby daughter didn’t decide to stick with her old man. I owe it all to you.”
Peyton: “Dad…. Thank you.”
Ray: “No, thank you. Oh, and how do you make Holy Water?”
Peyton: “Uh… how?”
Ray: “You boil the hell out of it.”
Peyton: “Oh my God, dad you are so terrible at these jokes!”
Peyton starts laughing as does Ray….
She continues watching the video, some tears start to trickle down her cheeks, she starts to wipe them when there is a knock on the door. She pauses her phone, leaves it on the bed, quickly wipes her face with the sleeve of her t-shirt, opening the door, surprised to see Kelcey Wallace there in a black sundress and thong sandals, her long sandy blonde hair hanging down and nails polished lavender…..
Peyton: “Kelcey!?”
Kelcey: “Do you have a minute to talk?”
Peyton: “What are you doing here?”
Kelcey: “I came to talk to you and….”
Peyton: “Did Owen or Jennifer call you!?”
The young Rice started to get really agitated without any provocation. Owen was standing not too far from Kelcey, at the top of the stairs. Jennifer was still in the kitchen. The tanned and beautiful Perfect Ten was called by Owen to check on Peyton, her friends and loved ones were worried, she seemed very off, and they wanted to help but it was apparent Peyton didn’t want that….
Kelcey: “Peyton, I sense a little hostility here, this is not you, what is going on sweetheart?”
Peyton: “Did you call her here, Owen!?”
Peyton bolted right past Kelcey almost bumping her in the shoulder, jumping right in Owen’s face. Her finger jabbing into his chest. Jennifer heard this, quickly running to the stairs but Owen signaled her to stop. Kelcey was coming from behind but he gestured her the same, Peyton had a look on her face that he had never seen before. There was something wrong, no doubt about it and in this scenario, it was best to let her vent….
Peyton: “WHY!? Why did you call her here! Why can’t you just mind your own business and let me be! All I wanted was some time for myself, a little wine, a nap! I knew it was a mistake moving in here with you!”
Kelcey: “Peyton, Enough!”
Owen: “NO, Kelcey…. Let her.”
Peyton: “Why did you call her, huh!?”
Owen: “Because of this, there is something going on with you and all you’re doing is moping around, extremely distant and quiet, you rarely have talked to me or Jennifer in weeks! All you do is drink wine and sleep! When was the last time you actually sat down and had a decent meal? When was the last time you and I went jogging together!? When was the last time you talked about wrestling or even your dad and…”
Peyton: “YOU KEEP MY FATHER OUT OF THIS!”
Peyton had screamed so loud that it shook the vases in the foyer. Jennifer was taken back. Owen and Kelcey now knew that it had something to do with her father, it made all the sense in the world. As Peyton started to cry, she began to thrust her fists at Owen’s chest. Kelcey was about to pull her back but Owen shook his head, slowly placing her arms around her as she began to ball in tears. After a few tense seconds, she finally stopped fighting and let Owen embrace her, finally breaking down. Kelcey knew this was major, and she had to get Peyton straight, it was the only way for her own mental and physical health she would get through this, and it could reflect with her in the ring…
Twenty Minutes Later
Jennifer hands Peyton a cup of Hot Tea. She sits there almost embarrassed at what transpired. Kelcey was next to her, rubbing her back and brushing some of her hair strands from the beautiful face of Peyton. Owen was on her other side holding her hand…
Peyton: “I’m sorry….”
Owen: “You never need to apologize; we just want you to tell us what is going on so we can help.”
Peyton: “I don’t know if I can, Owen. One thing that I have always valued was the respect that you guys have for me. I don’t know if I want to lose anymore of that as I feel like everyone I love is dropping like flies. I came home earlier because Ali and I had a fight, over the whole boat incident when I went out on the team building thing with Ace and the other gals. He heard some rumors, some were true. I never did anything to hurt him, but I should have never gone on that damn boat ride.”
Kelcey: “Well, you know how I feel about Ace Marshall.”
Peyton: “I know… I know. So yeah, that was my day, I slapped him because he basically was insinuating that he couldn’t trust me. I let myself get too wrapped up in emotions. I wanted to figure things out myself, not bring anyone down with me and most importantly, your opinion of me matters more than anything and I don’t you to think I am a bad person.”
Kelcey: “Honey, what is it? Tell us love, please.”
Peyton: “I see you like a mother to me Kelcey. I don’t want to lose that.”
Kelcey: “Peyton, all of us have done things we regret in the past.”
Jennifer chimes in….
Jennifer: “Yeah, I was heavy into drugs in high school after my sister died. I did a lot of stupid shit before Regan and David took me in. Stuff I am not proud of but know I am not that person anymore.”
Owen: “We all have, trust me, I’m not the best decision maker, there are things I have done too.”
Kelcey: “If I tell you something, will you promise to tell me then, Peyton?”
Peyton: “I…..”
Kelcey: “Please?”
She slowly nodded, Kelcey took her hand, her blue eyes looking right at her sincerely….
Kelcey: “While I was in Vegas recovering from injury and trying to get back in wrestling, I practically did every drug imaginable with Silas Mason. My time in Las Vegas was like a blur. I would have raging drug, rock and sex parties all the time, it became so bad I didn’t even know who the hell I was when I looked in the mirror. Had I not reached out to Shawn Mason for help, I would be dead right now. Peyton, the people that you call friends are the ones you should be able to trust. They are the ones that no matter what mistakes made; they won’t judge you. I think it is safe to say that none of us here are going to do that because we can’t. We are not hypocrites, love. Tell me please, what is going on?”
It took a second for Peyton to muster up the courage to finally speak about what had been going on with her life. There were moments here or there which made it all difficult, she had to trust her mentor, friends, family, anyone she could but it was hard for the one person she trusted the most turned his back on her after she spoke the truth which made Peyton very gun shy. She starts to tremble a little, Kelcey comforts her….
Owen: “It’s okay, please tell us.”
Peyton: “When my dad had the accident and was paralyzed, I stuck by him. My sister Rhiannon left to college on a full ride to Texas A&M, my mom couldn’t handle my father’s verbal abuse during his transition, it was really hard for my dad. It ended up being just him and I. Working at this local Diner, the kind patterned after the 1950’s off Route 66 where they have those real malts and shakes, great burgers, you know. I wasn’t making enough money to support my dad and I. His pension went to all the back bills that piled up, his disability bought some groceries, but it was like we were living paycheck to paycheck. While working at the Diner I met a couple, Warren and Tessa Dowling, they owned a business and asked if I would like to come try it out, I could make a lot of money and only work like two-three days a week. I was desperate, we needed money, and I had to drop out of University of Arizona, because my scholarship and Pell grant only covered so much. I never told my dad that so instead…. I went and I worked for the Dowling’s… and….”
She starts to cry some more; Owen placed her arm around Peyton as a reminder that her friends were there for her no matter what happened. Kelcey held her hand, Jennifer kneeled in front of her rubbing Peyton’s thigh. While she should have felt smothered, the young Rice didn’t, instead she felt supported and loved……
Peyton: “… and it was an escort service. I would come home with six to seven hundred dollars in my pocket a night, and if they wanted any “favors” and paid extra, I could come home with a thousand easily… some weeks I made three to four grand which was more than I would make at the Diner in a month. It was hard to pass up the money when it saved my dad and I from losing the house and everything we owned. I am not a whore…. Kelcey, Owen Jenni…. I am not a whore….”
The tears became heavier, slumping into Owen who started to form tears in his eyes as well. Kelcey covered her mouth feeling so bad for Peyton. Jennifer wiped some tears from her face…
Peyton: “after a few months, I couldn’t take it anymore, so I left. I had saved up enough money to be able to survive and soon after, I went to Ante Up Academy. Last year dad and I were having lunch and we ran into the Dowling’s. They blackmailed me, blaming their losses on me when I left that forced the escort service to close and threatened to tell my dad. While I was on the boat, I had gotten really drunk, had an argument with Jordan (Majors) and accidentally the blackmailing slipped out. I didn’t think anything about it, went to my cabin and passed out. While I was out, Jordan went into my phone and transferred three million dollars to pay off the Dowling’s.”
Kelcey’s eyes widen, they glare over to Owen and Jennifer who are both in shock as well….
Peyton: “I am forever indebted to her, but I paid off the Dowling’s, problem was Tessa had started dating my dad…”
Jennifer: “That bitch…. Sorry.”
Peyton: “No, it’s okay, she is a bitch. I confronted her a few weeks ago when I went to see dad, she swore up and down that she loved my father and had nothing to do with her brother, Warren. I called her out on it, dad overheard some things and I finally came clean and told him the truth.”
Kelcey: “What happened?”
Peyton: “He hasn’t talked to me since. He hates me Kelcey, said that all the respect he had for me was gone…. And I did this all for him….. I didn’t want to tell you guys because I already lost the one person I love most in my life; I didn’t want to lose the rest and…. I’m not a whore… please don’t think that I am a whore…”
A look of anger and frustration blanketed the face of Kelcey and Owen. Wallace brought Peyton into her arms and just let her cry and weep. Her eyes flared, almost reddish in color biting her tongue and trying to keep things together. Owen lowered his head, knowing how important Ray Rice is to Peyton and what she must be feeling, because he knows what it is like to lose a father but his wasn’t by choice. Jennifer cupped his face, trying her best to keep him calm as this time he started to wipe his eyes. This was not what they expected, but now that it is in the open….
They were going to do something about it.
Kelcey whispered to Peyton….
Kelcey: “You’re not a whore, you’re perfect.”
One Hour Later
Kelcey sat bedside, again brushing some strands of hair from Peyton’s face as she was dead asleep. Her phone still had the video of her father on, which Kelcey caught. Jennifer was in the kitchen making Pizza. Owen was at the doorway looking in, grabbing a blanket and placing it over Peyton….
Kelcey: “All this time, and we didn’t know she was suffering like this.”
Owen: “I can’t believe it.”
Kelcey: “We need to be here for her more than ever. You keep an eye on her. She is very volatile right now.”
Owen: “I will. What are we going to do?”
Kelcey turns to Owen with a glare in her eye….
Kelcey: “We are going to fix this.”
And that was exactly what Owen wanted to hear.
4.17.2020
New Orleans, LA.
While the last few weeks had been tough, allowing for Kelcey to help her and letting her friends, Owen Cruze and Jennifer Helms in as she finally told them what was going on and how she was dealing with it alone. Kelcey was worried about Peyton, but with experience in this sort of thing, dealing with Silas Mason, Chris and Sienna, and even Bree and Blake in the past, the one thing Kelcey learned quickly was it helped to concentrate on wrestling, her opponents and matches. Peyton was ready for Jordan Majors though for the young Rice, she was preparing one more night before all this was taking place, the Adrenaline Championship was a title Peyton wasn’t going to leave without. Kelcey had found an old boxing Gym not far from the French Quarter and Bourbon Street. She and Peyton were training, wanting to do nothing but focus on her opponent. It was out of character for Peyton to stick her nose in the business of Jordan and then getting mouthed off by Jaina of all things but that didn’t matter to Peyton, Kelcey had suggested maybe she try to talk to her, and see where her head was at, even help but while Peyton felt she crossed the line, the Perfect Ten didn’t think so. Maybe this was fueled by her hatred toward Chris, Sienna and Bree.
Kelcey watched Peyton punching and kicking the bag. She has on black tights cut off at the calves, a white sports top, her hands and feet were taped some, hair in a ponytail and nails polished white. Kelcey was in long purple tights, a long sleeve cut off matching sports top, with her hands and feet also taped up, long sandy blonde hair in a ponytail and nails polished a matte hot pink. Her blue eyes watched Peyton kicking the bag….
Kelcey: “Harder….”
She kicks hard, screaming….
Kelcey: “You have to forget she bailed you out, giving you money. I know that is a hard thing to do when you like and respect someone. Like Kelsai, you went out there and wrestled YOUR match, this young woman has beaten Ace Marshall, outlasted you, defeated Asher Hayes and Marie Jones, has done well in tag team action with Jake Starr. Jordan Majors is not only the real deal, she is probably the hottest star on the roster which means you need to not only be on your game, you need to leave all those memories from Day of Infamy, the nice gesture she has done and most importantly the peaks and valleys, the frustration and ineptitude you might have felt after losing the TV title. I want you to remember who the Rookie of the Year was in 2019. I want you to remember who the Star of Tomorrow was in 2019. I want you to think of all those times she has been praised for her work this year and how some have forgotten who Peyton Rice is. This is your moment to take it to the next level, to become an Adrenaline Champion, a title that fits perfectly around your waist and will be an incredible representative of that division. Think of the last three Champions before Jordan. Ravyn Taylor, Regan Street and Asher Hayes, we won’t count Gavin Taylor, he’s a fluke. Think about the prestige the title brings and what you can do with it moving forward. In singles competition you have had her number, keep it that way, this is your moment.”
Peyton screams and kicks again….
Kelcey: “Keep it that way! This is your moment!”
Again Rice screams and kicks again…..
Kelcey: “Keep it that way! This is your mom…..”
Kelcey stops mid-sentence when she sees Alistaire Allocco walking in the back door. He was in jeans, a Polo collared shirt and Sketchers. Kelcey nudges Peyton who stops, holding the bag from swinging anymore. Kelcey leans in and whispers in her ear…
Kelcey: “I will leave you two alone.”
Peyton: “Thanks, I will catch up with you later.”
Kelcey kisses the sweaty forehead of Peyton, grabs her things and starts walking out past Alistaire….
Kelcey: “She’s been through a lot.”
Alistaire: “I know.”
Kelcey nods, patting Alistaire on the shoulder before walking out. Hesitant some, Alistaire walks over to Peyton who sits on the apron of the ring, leaning against the ropes, she sips some water, whipping her sweat off her face….
Alistaire: “Hi.”
Peyton: “Hey.”
Alistaire: “Sorry to interrupt your work out, do you have a second?”
Peyton: “Of course I do. Look about the other week and the boat…”
Alistaire: “… Pey, let me explain myself first and then you can tell me whatever you want.”
Peyton: “Okay, that’s fair.”
Alistaire: “I have a lot of history with Ace Marshall, most of it wasn’t all that good. I know the games that man plays, the manipulation, the things he says and does, while the fans cheer for him because they find him charming, I know that deep down inside he will always have ulterior motives and anything he plans while he may call it team building is more to take control and feed his own twisted ego. Asher just thinks he hung the moon, so I expect that from him. I didn’t want to stop you because we have already been through a lot together and most of it is through my father. I didn’t want to come across as that guy who is controlling, I am not that, I too have a lot to learn and what I said was off base, I do trust you.”
Peyton nods, she is just happy that he is there talking to her calmly, maybe he just needed a few weeks to really think about things happening on that day….
Alistaire: “This is different for me, I have never had this kind of relationship before, with a woman that I love and respect, one who really cares about what I think, accepts me for who I am and understands, appreciates and encourages my beliefs. I was angry and bothered by what happened on the boat because I always want to protect you. I didn’t know what to do with my father set up the abduction, my world fell apart and that is when I realized just how important you are to me.”
Peyton: “Ali….”
Alistaire: “… Pey, listen. What happened to me in the past, I related it to your experiences and didn’t think about your feelings. The thought of you drunk around those guys, the whole pool thing, Jordan even, because I do not trust her and her associations are a big part of that, I want you to know how sorry I am for what I did and how I made you felt. That was wrong of me. I think of how defenseless you could have been which drives me mad, inebriated especially in a place with those two, it wasn’t far off they would try something through you to get to me. Ace put an extra step on the knee he hit you with to get to send me a message, that is how I feel. I want to tell you that after thinking very hard on this, that I don’t ever want to leave your side and put you in this type of predicament. If not for you than for me.”
Peyton: “I understand Ali. I am sorry too; I shouldn’t have reacted that way. I have been in a pretty bad place lately, I wanted to share it with you when the time was right. I just don’t want you or anyone I love to get the wrong impression of me. I am having issues with my dad too, and I think it affected my attitude toward you. I would never slap or hurt you in anyway and I hate myself for reacting like that.”
Alistaire: “You don’t have to apologize. The one thing that has always crossed my mind, I have found myself struggling with is I want you to look at and love me like you did Ricky, but I don’t think that will ever happen, as you will always love him more than m….”
Before he could finish the sentence, Peyton grabbed his hand and shook her head, gently placing her hand on his cheek….
Peyton: “Don’t ever compare yourself to Ricky. I love you, Ali. Ricky is gone, staring down on me right now with a smile on his face. All he would want is for me to be happy and you do that, okay? We had an argument, one that I think both of us are ashamed of, we are better people than this and sometimes we get caught up on the bad and forget the good. Once in a while we are entitled to trip, but if we fall, we need to pick ourselves back up and keep going.”
Alistaire: “You’re right and I was hoping you would say that.”
Peyton: “Why baby?”
He reaches into his pocket and slowly gets down on one knee as Peyton’s eyes widen, covering her mouth. Ali opens up the small box to reveal an engagement ring, Peyton starts to tear up some, as he is trying to propose to her in a rundown gym by the squared canvas which in many ways is fitting….
Alistaire: “Peyton Rice? Will you marry me?”
It didn’t take her but a second to nod and smile….
Peyton: “YES….. Yes I will marry you Alistaire Allocco!”
He stood up as she cupped her hands on his face, where they shared a passionate kiss. From the outside Kelcey looked on, while she was happy for the couple, she was also very concerned, not for Ali but the forces around that want to see them both fail. Kelcey grabs her phone, slips on her flip flops and starts walking down the street, as she dials, it rings a little before a male voice answer…
Male Voice: “Hello?”
Kelcey: “Ray? It’s Kelcey, we need to talk.”
The Perfect Ten continued to walk down Bourbon Street while the engaged couple celebrated with Ali placing the ring on Peyton’s finger….
SCENE FADES
Diary Entry
4.17.2020
It’s kinda late, I have been drinking a little bit of wine tonight, but this is no drunk diary entry. I have had some pretty dark days the last few weeks. The way I acted toward Owen was unforgivable and yet he not only forgave me, he also made me realize just how great of a friend to me he really is. Yeah, I was mad when he called Kelcey to come and talk to me, I was drunk which doesn’t happen often, but when your boyfriend practically insinuates you’re a slut, your dad is gone because he thinks you’re a slut, that whole saying, walks like a duck thing starts to get more meaning, making me start to believe it. Lucky for me though I have such a strong core of friends that will do anything for me whatsoever and that is what’s important, the people who have your back.
In all of that though something changed in the last few days, I am so focused on the Adrenaline Championship, I know that Jordan Majors wants this win bad, technically she has been waiting for it for quite some time and for me, I am looking for a singles title like the Adrenaline Championship. With Kelcey in my corner now I almost feel invincible yet at the same time that is a total false sense of security. In the last few weeks though, how things have just changed, it is crazy to even know how I am staring at an engagement ring right now on my hand!
Yes! Ali proposed to me tonight and I of course said yes!
Okay, maybe my excitement on paper isn’t the same but after everything that has happened between us, his father and all the games, me being abducted by Russian, everything culminating into these last few months to the point where I was even second guessing wrestling, has really been a turnaround and now I find myself in love once again when I didn’t know I could find it especially after Ricky’s death. And though we were already broken up for a year, I still loved him more than anything, so this is a transition which may take some time, but I am still super excited!
I called my dad, of course he didn’t answer, I wanted to share the news with him. I kept hoping he would stay mad at me for a few weeks and then open back up, lying to him really hurt though and now I don’t know if I will ever get my dad back, that scares me more than anything. I can’t allow this to distract me though, only thing I can hope for now is that he is watching Cold Blooded and his little girl wrestling the biggest match of her career against the Star of Tomorrow which had pretty much happened faster than anyone thought. I can’t think about it though, I just need to pretend if anything that he will be watching.
As I take the Adrenaline Championship.
XOXO
PAY IT FORWARD
The Scene Opens…
Jackson Square is a historic park in the French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana. It was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1960, for its central role in the city’s history, and as the site where in 1803 Louisiana was made United States territory pursuant to the Louisiana Purchase. In 2012 the American Planning Association designated Jackson Square as one of America’s Great Public Spaces. On the other two sides of the square are the Pontalba Buildings, matching red-brick, block-long, 4‑story buildings built in the 1840s. The ground floors house shops and restaurants; the upper floors are apartments, the oldest continuously rented apartments in North America. Diagonally across Decatur Street upriver from Jackson Square is the Jax Brewery building, the original home of a favorite local beer. After the company ceased to operate independently, the building was converted into several businesses, including restaurants and specialty shops. In recent years, some retail space has been converted into luxury condominiums.
Diagonally across Decatur Street downriver from the square is Café Du Monde, open 24 hours a day. Part of the historic French Market, it is known for its Café au Lait prepared with Chicory, and for its Beignet, served there continuously since the American Civil War days. Jackson Square has been the site of hundreds of live music events. Every year, the square hosts the French Quarter Festival and Caroling in Jackson Square. Occasionally, formal concerts are given in the park. Here is where we find the beautiful Peyton Rice along with her manager, Kelcey Wallace. Peyton has the biggest opportunity in her career, when she faces Jordan Majors for the Adrenaline Championship. This is a huge match for both women, Jordan wants to get the elusive win over Peyton and for Rice, she wants her second Championship which she defended her first, the TV Title to almost a record breaking reign, defeating Jordan twice on that road. Peyton though has had it rough since the times she was TV Champion, she had seen her stock drop some, had some rough outings, overlooked for some special opportunities and failed at the Trios Tournament. Peyton hasn’t had the best life outside the ring either, things had been very hard, one situation where Jordan literally bailed her out of and in many ways, Peyton owes her so much for it…
And this match maybe a way she is doing that, by getting a chance to see if she can beat her. Kelcey on the other hand sees a strong opportunity for Peyton, this was a title she never won, Kelcey was always in the Main Event scene so she didn’t get very many chances to compete for other titles other than the World. She wants this for Peyton, it will not only boost her confidence but also raise her stakes, putting her in the thick of things. Peyton sits on the steps by the Jackson Statue with Kelcey. She has on red pants, a tight, colorful design long sleeve top and thong sandals, her nails polished white and long sandy blonde hair straightened and hanging down. Kelcey is in pink dress pants, open toed wedge sandals and a black halter top, her long blondish hair in a ponytail, nails polished a matte hot pink. The camera starts to record, as Peyton looks over at Kelcey who rubs her back….
REC:
Peyton takes a second to get herself together before speaking in her very cute and girly voice….
“Hey guys! I have so much to talk about but let me first say, Alistaire Allocco proposed to me last night to marry him and I said YES, super excited about our future! BUT this for another time. Okay, so wow, how things quickly pop out on us as wrestlers, the culture so ever changing. One week we could be wondering where someone stands in the pecking order and the next, we are getting a huge title opportunity for one of the most prestigious belts in the SCW. To say that I am both excited and nervous is an underestimate as I feel like I have been flying under the radar since losing the TV Championship to my friend, Aaron Blackbourne last year. When Kelsai Adamson-Mason approached me before Retribution, I honestly didn’t know how to react. In many ways, I was starting to sense like I was being overlooked, but at the same time, I really didn’t give the SCW booking committee and Sasha anything to stand out. I had lost a couple of matches due to outside interference and crazy instances; I couldn’t find my footing. Day of Infamy really rattled my confidence, for I am so passionate about this business, I am the type of wrestler that basis things on performance more than anything. If you go out there and show you can hang with the best, then people pay attention. Kelsai was on fire, she has really stepped up her game in recent months and is so humble about it. She was right though, in many ways I was starting to frown more than smile, questioning whether this company was right for me or not. Things are not always as they appear, trying so hard to keep my head up, stay positive and do what I love to do most…
Wrestle.
For a moment in time, I was starting to see the passion, desire and admiration for this sport fade, and that scared me. I came to the greatest promotion in the world to succeed, maybe one day become a World Champion, who knows, as I climb the ranks week in and out. At the last PPV, Kelsai and I were the opening match, needless to say, we tore the house down. She reminded me why I became an SCW superstar, why I spent over fifteen months training, why I busted my butt down in EMERGE to be an undefeated Champion, leaving a legacy I’m proud of. Along the way things happen too, the death of Ricky Octavius really hit me hard, yet I was able to harness motivation through it and almost break a TV Title defense record, and even though I did not, doesn’t matter. I am proud of my accomplishments. One thing was missing, even after Kelsai and I left everything out in the ring, walking out both winners, for not only was she not the woman I faced at last year’s Rise to Greatness Pre-Show, she was exactly what a true performer and athlete who is here to compete does, being at the top of their game does….
Evolve.
I respect the heck out of Kelsai for in many ways she reminds me of who I am or at least I was until I let the negative and dark side of the business really get a hold of me. I was seriously thinking of just quitting, maybe going back down to EMERGE or even college to finish my degree. Life can sometimes bite you hard and then you are pretty much left to fend for yourself. So, before I continue, I want to say THANK YOU, Kelsai for restoring my faith. THANK YOU for reminding me why we do this and ANYTIME, ANYWHERE you have a rematch, I will always accept. When I found out that we were coming to New Orleans, a city with so much rich history for not only tourism and how it was founded, also for the SCW. Kelcey Wallace has made some memorable moments no one will forget and now I get the chance much to my surprise when I challenge for the SCW Adrenaline Championship title. It is funny how things turn out, you know? This time last year, I had nothing but deep disdain for the champion, Jordan Majors. It all happened in Seattle when she was trying to fit in and be unique, garner attention anyway she could, buying off thugs like The Network to attack my team before our match, it was the first time in the SCW I was ambushed and it stuck to me. Since then, I had related Jordan to that, a cheating woman who was trying to buy her victories, which I had no respect for.
Jordan though learned what I was taught a long time ago…
You can’t buy wins, you earn them.”
Kelcey looks over and smiles, proud that Peyton is getting back on track, her confidence has returned, and she is starting to believe in herself and chances again. It has been a rough go for Peyton both professionally and personally, but the last few days have really helped. Now she finds herself competing for one of the most prestigious titles in the company against a woman that not only bailed her out of a really bad situation but who many consider her arch-rival. Peyton and Jordan are like Batman and Joker, Superman and Lex Luthor, Wonder Woman and Cheetah, Hatfield’s versus the McCoy’s, even the Jets and the Sharks from Westside Story. Peyton looks back at the camera with her jaded green eyes….
“I never thought I would be in this position with Jordan Majors now, the last couple of times we faced over the TV Title, I was lucky to get wins out of both those contest but look guys, I am a realist too, I know that much like Kelsai, it was a different Jordan then. She has not only elevated her status with huge wins over top superstars including Ravyn Taylor, Christy Matthews, Asher Hayes and Ace Marshall, ALL former World Champions, she has proven in the tag team ranks with Jake Starr to be a formidable force to be reckoned with. During the time from our last match, Jordan turned it up, buckled down, put her head down and went all cylinders moving forward which is really impressive and I am so proud of her for that, Jordan has my respect. She started to realize the business doesn’t have time for her old games, she rarely had any success and when that notion started to settle in, Jordan Majors arrived in SCW….
But I have not.
When I first came to this company, I lost my debut match, it was the first singles contest I ever lost in my career which is pretty impressive considering. After this, much like Jordan I had to find the ground under my feet. Searching endlessly, as I was even told by Mr. D, himself to change my nickname, there were too many models and beauty queens in the company, so I had a huge dilemma ahead of me. After weeks of standing in front of the mirror trying to figure out some catchy gimmick or moniker, it was painstakingly hard, let me tell you. Even played with “Pretty Perfect”, as a homage to the woman I love and respect the most sitting next to me, but she agreed, I needed to be an extension of me, not her. As I was doing it though, I stopped, for the face which was staring back at me was the same one who was the little girl growing up dreaming to be a wrestler, her name was PEYTON RICE. When that happened, I knew who I was, yet while successful in my matches, I wasn’t actually gaining any traction, finding myself more fending off those who wanted to stereotype me or go after Kelcey’s legacy through my career. I spent time taking care of Kelcey while in a coma, I missed Taking Hold of the Flame which I promise this year I will not, I always found myself wrestling matches more to just keep me busy then actually climbing the ladder and gaining some traction, I was constantly getting experience but felt that at my level, I wasn’t growing with the company. My big break came with the TV belt and for three months, I felt like I belonged, all the while quietly Jordan was slowly starting to morph into who she is today. When I lost my TV title, I somehow pushed myself into the crowd becoming another face, I didn’t know what to do, I started to lose some faith in the process, the business as a whole. Everything seemed to be crashing down on me all at once, the cheap shots, the interference, the mistakes.
Then came Day of Infamy….
And rightfully named…
For that was the night I finally opened my eyes to the reality which had become.
It was the event where Jordan broke out as a top star in the SCW and it was the night, I fell back down further, and no one even gave it a second look. I want you to know something Jordan, before I say anything else about this, I need to explain myself. One thing Kelcey taught me along with all the great coaches in Ante Up is own everything. Do not worry about what other people are doing, worry about yourself and the results will come. I didn’t listen, instead I started to worry about what you were doing, my pride took over. I remember those words you said, and I quote…
“You know. I don’t have to make any decisions right now. I don’t have to play things out, talk to people or anything. I can enjoy the fact that tonight, I pinned the TV Champion. I pinned a former World Champion. I beat Peyton Rice. I beat the so-called Best Female Wrestler in the world and her team. Tonight…I’m going to focus on that.”
… that’s right, in one night all of this happened while I was icing up my bruised jaw thanks to Ace, watching your interview and from that day, I made a promise and commitment to myself, that one night soon, I will have this, a career defining moment, when I can stand there and proclaim everything you just said but the “I beat Peyton Rice”, which you had to put in there because no matter what we have done in the past, the one thorn on your side, the one win you have always wanted and NEEDED to go on was against me. Yes, you beat Peyton Rice last night by outlasting me, but you have never pinned or made me submit, well here is your chance.
Question is, can you reciprocate that night, Jordan?
Not if I have anything to say about it.”
In many ways, Peyton feels bad, Jordan while Peyton was passed out in the boat after drinking too much went into her phone and transferred money to prevent the Dowling’s from blackmailing her. This though for Peyton is all about business. She wants the Adrenaline Championship, wanting to continue her climb. This is also why Peyton has also been concerned with Jordan and what has been happening lately. Peyton may think Jordan won’t listen or follow her heart, either way Peyto who is out of character interfering in other’s personal life, may have overstepped her boundaries but in design, it was to motivate Jordan so if Peyton walks away victorious, it will be at her best. Kelcey watches as Peyton continues to speak….
“That woman who made it a career defining night at Day of Infamy? The one who went out there at Retribution and defeated Marie Jones and Asher Hayes to become Adrenaline Champion, the same one who has been dominant this year and a leading candidate for Female Wrestler of 2020? THAT Is who I want to face at Cold Blooded. You and I had out turns, but those times were different. While I struggled to break the ceiling in 2020, you shattered it, Jordan. Now as one of the most respected champions, the secret is already out, they know your worth, they understand just how dangerous Jordan Majors is and what she can do in a ring. They have you penciled in as a threat at Taking Hold of the Flame, they expect you to come into this PPV in your first title defense and defeat me, go on to elevate the championship once again like so many of those from your own blood, Jake Starr to Red Rayne, Regan Street, Asher Hayes, Amy Chastaine, Selena Frost and Christy Matthews to name a few, they each had their own twist on the belt and created an aura around it which makes it one of the most sought after championships in this company. And as your status climbs, rightfully so, sometimes we get mixed up in the moment and drama, some by choice and some by responsibility. There is a tie which binds with you Jordan, her name is Jaina Lancaster and she reminded me just how little she thinks of who I am. That is okay, because I deserved it and I would never intentionally try to drive a wedge between the two of you, love is always stronger, and I am so happy that you both found each other. Maybe there will be a huge celebration in Bree’s hometown becoming a dual champion but Jordan….
Damn it, I care about you because I was wrong of the person, I thought you were, and I can freely admit it. What you did for me, which I will never say was special, it meant so much, touching my heart and reinforcing a faith I had lost in recent months, there is good in everyone. Thank you, but I also know that you’re angry with me for interfering into these distractions, affairs since Retribution. You don’t need to listen to me Jordan, you’re a smart woman but I would never approach you about your life and actions, unless Kelcey and I talked about it, knowing this is a path you are carefully treading water in. I am not talking about family, I have my opinions of Bree Lancaster, one of the best in the business in the ring, but she is out for herself much like Sienna Swann who is using you for her own gain. Kelcey has experienced this venom from both, she has lived it for the last five years. I don’t expect you to listen to me but if I did make you mad?
Then good.
Use it as motivation to defeat me, use it as a means, to an end, bring every single emotion you have at Cold Blooded to pin my shoulders to the mat and retain the Adrenaline Title, whatever it takes Jordan because simply put?
You’re going to need it.
Every single bit of it, for what you did at Day of Infamy? Retribution? Trios Tournament? You will have to do it again this time tenfold and here is why. I’m not that confused, broken down drunk girl on the boat in Chicago, the one that could barely keep herself from crying, trying to escape the reality of my personal and professional issues with booze and debauchery. I have lost a lot already in my life, people I love, buried them six feet under, even some trust in the business, allowing myself to get tangled up in a crazy web weaved of distractions and despair. Not anymore, I am focused, hungry but most of all remember the nights I wondered if I had what it took to be a Champion in SCW. Now I get the chance to prove I can. The TV belt was the start, it made me hungry for more, what I want is the REAL Jordan Majors, I want the ready and focused Jordan Majors to come out to the ring and give me the greatest match of my life. This is why I kept prying, so look away, stare at me, no one else….
Because I will beat you at your best.
Then, remind everyone why I was Rookie of the Year, stepping into Fatal Fortunes and Taking Hold of the Flame as the Adrenaline Champion. This will be your first and ONLY title defense. This is not a repeat of last year, therefore the cards played out. I love you girl and I apologize to Jaina; I never did anything to hurt you, I hope one day you realize that. Now Jordan it’s time to focus and set your sights on the one woman who has been your Waterloo.
Prove me wrong, I’m going to make it certain you can’t.”
Peyton slowly gets up and takes a deep breath, turning to Kelcey who winks, proud of what she has said and done. She knows this is hard on Peyton, but she has the will and the way to overcome it all. Looking down at her engagement ring, she smiles a bit, looking back up at the camera…..
“Jordan, girl you are right about one thing, no matter how confident going into this match, while accomplishing all those special moments prior, I was sitting in the back watching, so ask yourself this question, Champ? Who is to say after Cold Blooded, you will be the one watching me victorious again, wondering what happened, I can answer that, ME finally standing tall, shocking the foundation of this company much like you did. I know I can and so do you, which is worrying most inside that moneymaker. You have risen, shown the wrestling world they made the right choice picking Jordan Majors as the Star of Tomorrow.
I am so happy for you, but tomorrow in a few days will be yesterday and I will be Adrenaline Champion and like every other person who has forgotten about Peyton Rice, I will remind them and you my friend….
I’m not just another “Pretty Face”!”
Peyton tilts her head and smirks before blowing a kiss as Kelcey looks on, applauding her protégé and possibly the next Adrenaline Champion.
FADE TO BLACK
/REC
Peyton Rice 